NSW Cup 2025

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I think Manly's attitude to lower grades historically was less about winning lower grade comps and more about developing a fairly small number of players identified as likely first grade talents.

Once players get to reserve grade it really should be on them to make a case for promotion. I doubt that successful coaches pick reserve graders in firsts just to see whether they'll suddenly become first graders 'when given the opportunity'.

Traditionally they either have to bash the door down, or else wait for injuries to give them a taste of first grade. At least these days multiple injuroes to NRL players are guaranteed 😱 so eventually most will get a shot. Even Matterson and Gordie have got a few NRL games up!
I'd say a big part of it is also having the engine to go the full 80 minutes. You can be a very average player and still be in the NRL if you can go the 80 minutes just tackling and hitting the ball up.
 
Interesting that Blake Metcalfe had a run from the Flegg squad. Assuming he has some good wraps on him.

We’ve clearly been bloodying more young guys in Cup towards the back end of the year, maybe the cupboard isn’t as bare as some think.

Laiafi, Walsh, Zaidas, Hart, Navale, Mafoa, Patolo, Willett all look like potential first graders in the next year or two.
 

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